Don't let scammers hijack your Haiti donations

Emails, social-site pitches could be attempts to prey on your goodwill

CHICAGO (MarketWatch) -- As Americans open their hearts and their pocketbooks to help those devastated by the earthquake this week in Haiti the federal government is warning that scammers are anxious to take advantage of that generosity.

Millions of dollars are pouring in to help those who have been left hurt and homeless after the quake toppled buildings and battered the landscape of the capital of Port-au-Prince Tuesday, killing thousands and affecting upwards of 3 million.

Established organizations like the American Red Cross are at the forefront of collections. But scammers are taking their place in line as well, hoping to con unsuspecting do-gooders through social networking sites, email and direct calls.

The State Department, the FBI and the Federal Trade Commission are encouraging Americans to choose carefully when considering urgent appeals for aid. Even the Better Business Bureau is cautioning consumers about clarion calls.

"You don't have to give to someone who calls, writes or emails you out of the blue," David Vladeck, director of consumer protection, said in an FTC blog. "It's a good idea to give through a Web site or phone number that you know is legitimate."

The FBI said people should apply a "critical eye" and take the time to scope out organizations before responding to requests for aid.

"Past tragedies and natural disasters have prompted individuals with criminal intent to solicit contributions purportedly for a charitable organization and/or a good cause," an FBI advisory said.

About $16 million in cash has been donated so far -- as well as water, food, medical supplies and clothing -- from the United States. Relief and volunteers also are coming from China, France, Spain and Britain.

Legitimate appeals

The American Red Cross has given $10 million to support relief efforts, focusing on priority needs of food, water, temporary shelter, medical services and emotional support, according to its Web site. It also is helping the injured who need blood.

A number of Web sites, including the State Department's, also are urging well-wishers to contribute to the International Response Fund via cell phones. Texts can be sent to "Haiti" to "90999" and a $10 donation will be billed to your cell-phone bill.

American Express
AXP, -0.63%
is giving money and is waiving credit-card fees on transactions for others who donate to government-sponsored relief organizations offering aid.

American Airlines
AMR, -6.74%
has already flown three planes loaded with aid and medical supplies and equipment to Port-au-Prince and is planning more. Customers also can offer 250 AAdvantage miles to transport Red Cross volunteers.

United Airlines
UAL, +2.71%
will match up to $50,000 in donations that its customers and employees make to the Red Cross. It's also setting up air-lift support that would include transporting volunteers, food and water.

"During times of need, it is so important that we use the resources that we have to assist in getting people and supplies in and out of areas where (they are) needed most," said Sonya Jackson, president of United's foundation.

How to avoid scams

The FBI has set out guidelines consumers should follow before making any kind of donation:

Do not respond any unsolicited incoming emails including clicking links contained within those messages.

Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as surviving victims or officials asking for donations via email or social networking sites.

Verify the legitimacy of nonprofit organizations by going to Internet-based resources that could confirm the group's existence and its nonprofit status. Again, don't follow the purported link to the site.

Be cautious of emails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.

Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf to ensure contributions are received and used for intended purposes.

Do not give your personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions. Doing so could compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft.

If you've received an email that might be suspect or feel you may have already been scammed, notify the FBI through the Internet Crime Complaint Center, www.ic3.gov.

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